TFP Bureau, Raipur, May 25, 2025: Chhattisgarh’s unique Bastar development model earned widespread acclaim at the Chief Ministers’ Conclave chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi. The state’s innovative socio-cultural initiatives, especially the Bastar Olympics and Bastar Pandum, captured the attention of the Prime Minister and fellow Chief Ministers.
Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, accompanied by Deputy Chief Ministers Vijay Sharma and Arun Sao, highlighted the government’s commitment to good governance through transparency and efficiency. He noted the establishment of a dedicated Department of Good Governance and Convergence, supported by digital monitoring tools like the Atal Monitoring Portal, ensuring prompt grievance redressal and real-time tracking of scheme implementation.
“Our focus is not only on launching schemes but ensuring their honest and effective execution on the ground,” CM Sai said during his address at the conclave held at Ashok Hotel.
A significant portion of his presentation emphasized the successful grassroots implementation of central flagship programs such as Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, Ujjwala Yojana, Ayushman Bharat, and Jal Jeevan Mission, driven by Gram Sabhas and technology-enabled outreach.
The highlight was the detailed presentation on Bastar Olympics and Bastar Pandum—two hallmark initiatives transforming the socio-cultural landscape of the region. Referencing PM Modi’s slogan, “Kheloge India, Jeetoge India,” CM Sai described Bastar Olympics as a powerful social movement replacing weapons with traditional sports equipment. The event engaged 1.65 lakh athletes from 32 blocks across seven districts over 40 days, featuring 11 tribal games including archery, kho-kho, kabaddi, and tug-of-war. Participants spanned juniors, seniors, surrendered Naxals, and differently-abled athletes, with notable enthusiasm from women and remote villages.
CM Sai shared the inspiring story of Punem Sanna, a wheelchair athlete from formerly Naxal-affected Dornapal, now a medalist and youth inspiration. The event had previously received praise from PM Modi during his ‘Mann Ki Baat’ radio program as “a celebration of Bastar’s soul.”
Equally celebrated was the Bastar Pandum festival, a vibrant cultural event preserving tribal heritage and folk arts, involving 47,000 performers, 1,885 panchayats, and 1,743 cultural troupes. Spanning three phases, it featured folk dances, music, markets, and food contests. The government distributed Rs 2.4 crore in incentives, fostering community pride and unity across generations, becoming a symbol of peace and progress in areas once marred by conflict.
Selected among states to showcase best practices, Chhattisgarh’s Bastar model stood out for its integration of public participation, cultural revival, and development, offering a replicable blueprint for other states seeking inclusive growth and social harmony.
